Human First Model
Together, we can build strong connections, shared purpose, and a safe community where true change happens.
Meet the Village
Before
After
The Power of Community
The Other Side Village Human First model is a holistic framework designed to foster Whole-Person Change through six interconnected pillars:
Self-Governance
A democratic therapeutic community built on peer-led accountability.
Growth
Residents engage in meaningful work and are supported by social norms that drive progress.
Self-Reliance
Emphasis on paying one’s own way and building self-efficacy.
Love
Cultivating meaningful connections and a sense of responsibility to the community.
Safety
A sober, secure, and beautiful environment that fosters healing.
Support
Access to medical and relational mental health services, guided by coaches with lived experience.
Purpose & Connection
At its core, we’re trying to solve social isolation, hopelessness, and disconnection—not just homelessness. Housing is important, but many people experiencing chronic homelessness have lost community, purpose, healthy relationships, accountability, and belief in themselves long before they lost housing. If all we do is place someone in an apartment without rebuilding those things, we may temporarily stabilize them, but we often don’t create lasting transformation. The Other Side Village is designed to create an environment where people can heal in community and rediscover meaning, responsibility, and belonging.
Make a Connection
What to Expect
in the Village
The Other Side Village is a community of accountability, purpose, and growth. The goal isn’t simply to help people survive—it’s to help people thrive and be able to maintain self-sufficiency. Community helps restore identity. Accountability helps restore self-respect. Purpose gives people a reason to keep moving forward.
Have a question? Reach Out!
Requirements
Applicants must meet the following requirements in order to live at the Village:
- Individuals must be chronically homeless. (Defined as any person with a disability who has been living in a place not meant for human habitation for the last 12 months continuously or on multiple occasions that cumulatively total at least 12 months.)
- Individuals must have lived in the Salt Lake City Metro area for at least the past year.
- Individuals must complete an assessment and agree to a background check.
- Individuals must not be registered sex offenders or have committed aggravated arson.
- Before moving into The Other Side Village, individuals must first graduate from the Village Prep School which is the entry point into life at The Other Side Village.
Expectations
If they meet these qualifications, residents must complete The Other Side Village Prep School, where they’ll learn the basics of caring for themselves and their new home, before they live in The Village. Once there, they must follow The Village covenants:
- Pay rent on time.
- Abide by civil law.
- Follow community rules (similar to an HOA).
- Continued commitment to stay engaged.
Self-Sustainability
Our goal is to reach self-sustainability, meaning that we will no longer rely on donations and grants in order to run operations. The community includes social enterprises, where residents have the opportunity to work, develop important skills, increase their income, and gain a sense of accomplishment and purpose. The profit from these businesses fund The Village operations so it can continue to grow and bless others.
Care & Support
We’re dedicated to a whole-person change—providing residents with the resources they need to grow, become self-reliant, and feel safe, loved, and supported. Physical and mental health clinics, as well as continuous mentorship, within The Village are designed to make this change a reality.
Create a Community of Purpose with Us
Building a community of connection, change, and safety is a team effort, and we need your help. From volunteers and sponsors to residents ready to start a new chapter in their lives, each of us can play a key role in establishing a purpose-driven, people-centered environment. Learn more about contributing to The Other Side Village, applying for residency, or submitting a referral to get started.
Be Part of
the Solution
Join us in creating a community where healing, growth, and transformation are possible for all.